Manasta
Manasta is a hearty Italian-inspired dish featuring tender spareribs and flavorful escarole, seasoned with garlic, red pepper, salt, and pepper. Perfect for family dinners or comfort food lovers, it combines savory meat with greens in a satisfying, rustic stew that warms the soul.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut and clean the escarole.
- Boil the escarole for 10 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- Cut the spareribs, discarding excess fat.
- Put the spareribs in a pan with water to cover.
- Boil the spareribs for 30 minutes, skimming off foam.
- Add the escarole, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper to the pan.
- Simmer for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until the meat is tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the spareribs in garlic and olive oil before cooking. If you can't find escarole, substitute with kale or Swiss chard. Adjust the amount of garlic to your personal preference; roasted garlic adds a sweeter flavor. Skimming foam while boiling the ribs ensures a clearer broth, which improves the dish's presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Manasta with a side of crusty Italian bread to soak up the flavorful broth. A light salad, like Italian Salad Dressing with mixed greens, complements the rich flavors of the dish. For a complete meal, pair it with a glass of red wine, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the dish appears dry. This helps to maintain the tenderness of the meat and the texture of the escarole.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manasta contains roughly 741 calories, with 63g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (125% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 694mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat instead of spareribs?
Yes, you can substitute spareribs with pork shoulder or even chicken thighs for a different flavor profile. Adjust the cooking time as needed; chicken will require less time to become tender.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, Manasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure even warming.
What can I serve with Manasta?
In addition to the suggested crusty bread, consider serving this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a creamy polenta. These sides balance the dish's richness and add variety to your meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).